Echoes of the Land of Mine - By Anirban Sen

Written By: Anirban Sen

Category: Poetry

Competition: Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026

Anirban Sen presents a deeply evocative poem titled "Echoes of the Land of Mine" as part of the Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026. This reflective piece, submitted in the poetry category, delves into themes of nature and personal introspection. Sen invites readers to ponder their connection to the land and the environment, evoking a sense of longing and questioning the impact humanity has on its surroundings.

About the Work

"Echoes of the Land of Mine" is a poignant exploration of nature and identity, featuring vivid imagery and a reflective tone. Anirban Sen weaves a narrative that contemplates the relationship between humanity and the natural world, touching on themes of regret and responsibility. The poem's introspective style encourages readers to consider their role in the environment's wellbeing and the legacy they leave behind.

Echoes of the Land of Mine

Original Submission by Anirban Sen

Echoes of the Land of Mine

That land, river, plain, and hills I knew once, breathe heavily on my shoulders.

I asked what happened; it replies, but I tremble with fear.

With the realization, I step back-what have I done to you?

They lowered their heads; I started questioning, didn’t I?

"Not you, it stopped paying back," I lose my nerves.

Then the answer came, halting forth: "Did we do something wrong?"

I lost it; all of a sudden I started wondering about wisdom-

What it means for those who never had it, the word.

Does it signify? It never has its signifier other than in me, and I wonder if in any.

Pile after pile, one after another, built, arranged, aesthetic ones, but

I wonder at the meaning and the sense, though I am too foolish to find one.

I ask the river, "Mother, why are you pale?" It just shakes its head

To assure me: "Child, don’t be upset. I am the mother;

I am accustomed. I bear a child in my womb-

Not you, so don’t be upset. I have it all."

I weep; tears fall, but as a child who is helpless.

Just like always-how can I and what can I do

Not to pretend to do, but to really do something?

Not only for the mother, but for every mother of ours.

A mother once forgotten will be forgotten forever.

I slip into despair, knowing the helpless situation I am in.

I lower my head; thunder strikes me-

Not in my head, but in my heart.

Am I the one Mother once carried, or

Am I the one who compels her?

But she never renounces.

I felt numb; I became silent and the echoes stop.

The son slips into the land and lies there,

Knowing that if it is the fate, why should you be alone?

If I can’t save you, then I will also join in the funeral-

Not as a son who supports the body,

But with the body in the coffin,

With my mother who once bore me.

About the Competition

The Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026 by Hashtag Kalakar offers a platform for writers to showcase their talent and engage with a global audience. This prestigious event celebrates diverse voices and creative expressions, encouraging participants to share their unique perspectives through the written word.

We extend our heartfelt thanks to Anirban Sen for sharing "Echoes of the Land of Mine" with us in the Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026. Your insightful reflections and emotive language provide a profound reminder of our connection to nature and the responsibility we bear towards it.

About Hashtag Kalakar

Hashtag Kalakar is a creative platform dedicated to providing artists, writers, singers and other creative talents with opportunities to showcase their work and reach wider audiences through competitions, features and creative initiatives.